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Telegram rolls out Protected Content and Delete by Date as key features

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Instant messaging platform Telegram has rolled out a slew of new features in its latest monthly update to improve content management in Groups and Channels, and enhance overall experience for Android and iOS users. The new Protected Content feature will help creators protect the content they publish on Telegram and ensure that it is available only for their intended audience. In order to provide complete control to users over their digital footprint, the Delete by Date feature will enable them to easily find and delete date specific chats from the history.

Telegram pioneered the art of multiple devices with robust security and privacy for users, and now they have added another layer of security to it by providing access to device login details from a specific device and options such as automatically logout due to an inactive session.

Protected Content in Groups and Channels

Group and Channel owners who want to keep their content members-only can restrict message forwarding from their chat, which also prevents screenshots and limits the ability to save media from posts.

To change users’ ability to forward messages open the Group or Channel Info page > Group / Channel Type > Restrict Saving Content.

Delete Messages by Date

With this update, you can clear chat history from a specific day or date range in any one-on-one chat. The app has allowed this feature to allow a free hand accessibility and control to users over their chat data.

To open the calendar, tap the date bar that pops up as you scroll through the chat – then choose which days to clear. Clearing history by date currently only works in one-on-one chats, but messages in any chat can be set to auto-delete one day, week, or month after sending.

Anonymous Posting in Channels and Groups

User are now able to post anonymously on a mass forum such as Telegram Public Channels that allows unlimited participants and Telegram Groups that allows 0.2 million members. These groups are used for everything from discussing big matter like democracy to chatting with fans, hence the platform has added the ability to appear as a channel when sending messages in these chats.

Tap the profile picture next to the message bar and choose one of your channels – the messages you send after that will appear with the name and photo of the channel instead of your personal account. When posting as your channel, you’ll also see the channel name at the top of your message bubbles.

Also Read: Infinix finally forays into laptop market with INBook X1 series in India

New Ways to Log In via Call

Telegram has now allowed some mobile devices with an option to receive a login call from Telegram and then enter several digits of the phone number that called – instead of getting codes via text message.

Responses to Join Request and Donations to Content Creators

When users request to join a group or channel and its admin responds with a message, users will see which community they are from at the top of the chat.

Bot admins can contact users requesting to join a chat where they are an admin — even if the user didn’t communicate with the bot before. This opens up endless possibilities on the platform: from simply accepting the rules of a group chat before joining, to passing an admission test, to making a small donation to the creators of a channel.

Global Chat Themes

In the last update, Telegram introduced 8 new global chat themes, however they were only available on iOS so far. With this latest update, now Android users would be able to select from these 8 new chat themes for their UI.

Chat Settings have been fully redesigned, giving the new themes center stage. Built by the Telegram Team, every theme has a Day and Night mode, colourful animated background and gradient message bubbles. Chat Settings have been fully redesigned, giving the new themes center stage. Built by the Telegram Team, every theme has a Day and Night mode, colourful animated background and gradient message bubbles.

Dedicated Updates for iOS

Text Recognition on iOS 13+

On devices with iOS 13 and above, Text Recognition (Live Text) is enabled for photos in Telegram chats, allowing users to quickly select, copy and search without touching your keyboard. This image recognition is securely handled entirely on your device.

Format Text in Media Captions on iOS: A little bit of bold or italics can add just the right emphasis to a message, and now you can use all text formatting options in media captions as well – including text links.

Redesigned Contact Info on iOS: Contacts, Groups and Channels have updated info pages with a new look in the style of iOS 15.

Infinix finally forays into laptop market with INBook X1 series in India

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Following weeks of reports and speculations, smartphone brand Infinix has finally forayed into the world of laptops by launching its revolutionary INBook X1 series laptop on ecommerce platform Flipkart. The laptop, which has been in the news since its announcement, is a latest Windows 11 intel core device that will come in three processor variants i3 (8GB + 256GB), i5 (8GB+ 512GB), i7 (16GB+512GB).

The newly-introduced INBook X1 sports a perfect combination of lightweight, strong battery power and superior performance for the young working professionals and students, who are always on the go. The laptops will be available on Flipkart from December 15 at an introductory price of Rs 35,999 (i3), Rs 45,999 (i5) and Rs 55,999 (i7) respectively.

Anish Kapoor, CEO – Infinix India, said, “With our new Infinix INBook, our effort is to provide our customers with a product that not only caters to their multifunctionality needs but also ensures supreme visual and processing quality – catering to both their personal and professional needs.”

“We are pleased to partner Flipkart and expand our long-standing relationship which started with mobiles nearly half a decade ago. Flipkart’s nuanced understanding of the segment and the reach coupled with our great product build will truly bring customer delight,” he added.

With just 1.48kg of weight and 16.3mm thickness, this lightweight notebook is heavy on performance and mobility, equipped with a 55Wh battery for longevity and embellished with aircraft AI alloy for durability. It also comes with a dedicated hardware-based camera and audio switch ensures protection from snoopers.

Rakesh Krishnan, Senior Director at Electronics, Flipkart, said, “The laptop market has expanded significantly over the years and the entry of Infinix with its work, learning, and entertainment from home-focused laptop variants will play a pivotal role in meeting customers’ requirements at attractive price points. With Flipkart’s affordability payment constructs such as No Cost EMI and Buy Now Pay Later, customers will also have a seamless purchase experience.”

Let’s take a look at the specifications of this notebook:

Ultra-light, portable, and sleek design: For those who are always on the move, ready to give a presentation while traveling or playing their favourite games online while chilling at a staycation resort, the all-new Infinix INBook X1 14-inch laptops are the most portable thing ever. Their all-metal body made with durable aircraft-grade aluminium finish weighing only 1.48kg, and 16.3mm slim, makes them the thinnest and the lightest in this price segment. Allowing the users to share their work conveniently, it has a 180-degree viewing angle. The laptop comes with a 14-inch full HD IPS display with 1920×1080 pixels for high-resolution display clarity, an aspect ratio of 16:9, brightness of 300 nits, and 100% RGB colour reproduction.

The INBook X1 laptop comes in three premium and vibrant colours to suit every style: Noble Red, Starfall Grey, and Aurora Green.

Also Read: Playfit Slim Review: Tailored for sophisticated wear with multiple features

Powerful battery: Backed by a 55Wh high-capacity battery, the Infinix INBook X1 series gives almost 13-hours of video playback. This ensures a perfect balance of power and portability, enabling the users to ‘charge and forget’ without cutting the flow of the work or entertainment throughout the day. The battery is supported by a 65W fast Type-C charger that can charge the laptop up to 70% in 55 minutes, which means there is no need to carry the charger for that last-minute meeting at the coffee shop.   Also, you don’t need to worry about having two chargers as it comes with a multi-utility charger that charges both a laptop and a smartphone.

Power-packed performance: Who doesn’t love a laptop that doesn’t lag and can get the work done in a jiffy? The Infinix INBook is powered with the latest Intel core processor- i3/i5/i7 & comes pre-installed with Windows 11. The Infinix INBook i7 processor variant is powered by an Intel Ice Lake Core i7 chipset that promises top-speed performance. It comes with LPDDR4X with 3200Mhz memory frequency & ROM Quality- NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD storage which is 5X faster than a normal SATA SSD by delivering a reading speed of 2400 MBPS and a writing speed of 1900 MBPS. All three laptops come installed with Ice Storm 1.0 Cooling System, which keeps the temperature low even after prolonged usage. The i3 and i5 variants of Infinix INBook X1 have an Intel UHD Graphics unit, whereas i7 comes with an advanced, integrated Iris Plus up to 64EU graphics unit. Both i3 and i5 come in dual-channel memory with 8 GB DDR4X RAM, whereas i7 comes with 16 GB DDR4X RAM.

Connectivity: To further streamline and ease the process of remote working through laptops, enough ports are required to connect all accessories for getting jobs done. All three variants of the Infinix INBook X1 series come with multiple connectivity ports, including One USB 2.0 port and 2 USB 3.0 Ports, a USB Type-C port for smartphone charging and data transfer and one USB Type-C port for laptop charging and data transfer HDMI port, a micro-SD card reader, a DC charging port and a 2-in-1 headphone and mic combo jack.

While both i3 and i5 variants come installed with WiFi 5, the i7 variant has a built-in WiFi 6, making downloading speed 3x faster than the other variants.

Also Read: Noise partners TWS innovator Bragi to revolutionize Indian hearable category

Privacy: A laptop is a treasure trove of all personal and sensitive data. To ensure that they remain secure, the Infinix INBook X1 i7 comes with an ultra-fast fingerprint unlock feature placed just below the keyboard for enhanced security. The laptop offers a 720P HD webcam for video calls and meetings, paired with two digital microphones for crisp and clear audio for effortless communications during online classes or remote working. Keeping customers’ privacy in mind, INBook X1 has a Hardware-based privacy switch that allows users to cut off the power supply to the mic and camera from the CPU. In terms of audio output, the Infinix INBook X1 has quad stereo speakers with DTS audio processing to ensure an immersive sound experience while watching videos or playing games.

Daiwa launches two new 4K UHD Smart TVs with Magic Remote in India

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Daiwa introduces two new UHD Smart TVs powered by webOS TV in India. With ThinQ AI Voice assistance, an intuitive user interface supporting new technologies and a wide range of streaming services, the webOS TVs outshines every cinematic experience. Both 109cm (43) D43U1WOS and 140 cm (55) D55U1WOS are part of Daiwa’s very successful webOS TV series line-up, manufactured at the Greater Noida manufacturing facility of Videotex.

Priced at Rs 34,999 and 49,999 respectively, the Smart TVs are already available at leading retail stores in India with a 12 months complete warranty and additional 12 months on Panel Warranty (T&C apply). The 4K UHD Smart TVs from Daiwa, with their webOS TV line up, aim to disrupt the status quo in an industry with its proprietary operating systems. Both the Smart TVs are powered by ARM CA55 1.1 GHz Quad-core processor, four times faster than conventional TVs. They are equipped with a High RAM of 1.5 GB with an internal storage of 8 GB. The TVs support a content store with infotainment apps; that includes Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Disney+ Hotstar, Spotify and many more. ThinQ AI lets users enjoy entertainment through voice assistance via Magic Remote or Smartphone with the LG ThinQ App.

It learns user patterns and accordingly builds suggestions and recommendations for music, movies, and more. The intelligent edit function of the smart TVs lists the apps and programs as per the past choices and frequency of the usage. Alexa Built-in is now available on the 4K Ultra HD Daiwa Smart TVs powered by webOS TV, which shall allow the users to access all functions of Alexa on the TV and operate the TV using Alexa. With voice command operations using ThinQ AI and Alexa Built-in, Daiwa Smart TVs build the ultimate hands-free experience.

The 4K UHD Smart TVs are crafted with a bezel-less display with a screen to body ratio of 96% and immersive sound with 20W Surround Sound Box speakers coupled with Dolby Audio sound technology. The 4K Cinema Smart TVs support 4K visuals with 1.07 billion colours, and the Cinema Mode is calibrated to D6500 Colour Temperature for users to experience a cinema-like viewing experience just the way the director intended. Enhancing the visual experience is the deep learning AI and Quantum Luminit+ Technology that up-scales the low-resolution images to 4K to offer sharp and vivid visuals. The Smart TVs also support personalized picture and sound settings while viewing the content on OTT apps as per the user’s preference, making it a real cinema experience.

Also Read | ‘Daiwa-li Smart Utsav Offers’ goes live by Daiwa, for its range of Smart TVs in India

The 4K UHD Smart TVs support a multi-HDR format that includes HDR10 and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). HDR10 delivers detailed images with rich colours by optimizing every single scene. The dynamic scene-by-scene adjustment technology builds impressive HDR-quality visuals. HLG provides an extended colour gamut, with enhanced brightness, contrast and an excellent viewing experience. MEMC (Motion Estimation and Motion Compensation) supporting 4K @ 60Hz ensures smooth blur-free visuals and lively transitions while watching sports or playing games. The TVs also support ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), which lowers input lag for a smooth gaming experience.

The TVs feature dual-band Wi-Fi for high-speed connectivity, Miracast and 2 Way Bluetooth 5.0. The TVs come with a Magic Remote featuring Universal Control of all the connected devices (such as set-top box, soundbars, Etc.) and Voice command, dedicated hotkeys for Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, and the unique click wheel.

Daiwa is the first Indian brand to introduce UHD Smart TVs powered by webOS TV. Existing users of the recently launched model 126cm (50) D50U1WOS 4K UHD Smart TV powered by webOS TV can now download the newly released software update to enjoy the Alexa built-in feature. Since its inception, Daiwa has carved itself a distinct niche in the television industry, manufacturing several technologically advanced goods.

With over 800+ service centres across India connected through its mobile app ‘My Daiwa’, the company provides a seamless customer service experience. The app allows users to register their products, request installation, chat with customer care executives, submit service/warranty requests and track service status directly.

Also Read: Noise partners TWS innovator Bragi to revolutionize Indian hearable category

Tech NewsWrap: Infinix INBook X1 laptops launched… and more

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Infinix INBook X1 laptops launched

The Infinix InBook X1 series have finally gone official. The series consists of three notebooks with 10th gen Intel processors – Intel Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 – and the Indian division has just announced the launch of the trio. All three laptops run on Windows 11 out-of-the-box and feature a 14-inch full HD IPS display. The laptops also have up to 512GB of SSD storage and feature a backlit keyboard. S for price, Intel Core i3 CPU model with 8GB RAM/256GB SSD is priced at Rs 35,999, Rs 45,999 for Intel Core i5, and Rs 55,999 for Intel Core i7 CPU model.

Vivo announces Y55s 5G

Chinese smartphone maker Vivo has finally made the Vivo Y55s 5G smartphone official. The smartphone isn’t available in India at the moment, but the company usually brings most of its devices to the country too. It has a 6.58-inch LCD display with Full HD resolution and sports an 8-megapixel front camera. The phone also holds two cameras on the back, with the primary camera having 50-megapixel resolution. It will be sold in Blue, Pink or Black color options and is currently priced at CNY 1699, which is approximately Rs 20,000.

Google Chrome rolls out scrolling screenshot feature

Google has finally added support for Android 12’s scrolling screenshots in Chrome. With this, users can now witness some of the most dynamic features with an all-new design built. However, the scrolling screenshot feature was available on OnePlus, Samsung, and other devices. But it was certainly not available on all devices, including Google Pixel and more. The availability of scrolling screenshots in Google Chrome should let people capture and manage less images.

Instagram to bring back chronological feed in 2022

Instagram introduced algorithmic feed on its platform back in 2016. Ever since then, many Instagram users have insisted on having a more simplistic feed, one that would show posts chronologically. Soon, these users will have their wish come true as Instagram’s head Adam Mosseri that the company will bring back chronological feed in 2022. He made the announcement while he was being grilled by the Senate subcommittee about the issue of child safety on the photo and video sharing app.

Also Read: PanaCast 20 AI-enabled personal video conferencing device is now available

Noise partners TWS innovator Bragi to revolutionize Indian hearable category

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Homegrown connected lifestyle brand Noise has entered into an exclusive partnership with Bragi, the inventor and largest intellectual property owner of true wireless headphones. It is Bragi’s first partnership with an Indian originated brand. Under this partnership, Noise will exclusively work with Bragi to launch an intelligent range of audio devices powered by the proprietary Bragi OS in India. The products will be collaboratively designed by both the teams. First of its range is expected to be launched in the first half of 2022.

Noise has signed a long-term partnership with Bragi to infuse smart hearable devices in India. With this, the Noisemakers will be able to leverage the next generation of features in TWS – never seen before in India. This partnership is in line with Noise’ vision to introduce more intelligent products and continue to innovate for the Indian market, it said in a statement.

Amit Khatri, Co-founder at Noise, said, “We are ecstatic to have Bragi on board as our technology partners. Bragi has not only delivered the most innovative technology but, it has also emerged as one of the leaders in the world within no time. Bringing together Bragi’s innovative technology and Noise’s knowledge of the Indian market will enable us to transform the hearable industry in India. The Indian hearable segment has observed massive growth in recent years, with an increased appetite for tech-froward and feature-packed gadgets. Noise is already amongst the top five hearable brands in India. With this partnership, we at Noise, intend to offer hi-tech and revolutionary products to the Noisemakers and become India’s No. 1 hearable brand in the coming days. We are thrilled to kickstart our partnership and change the game for Indian hearable category.”

Also Read: 73% Indians created playlist for their loved ones during pandemic: New JBL Research

Nikolaj Hviid, Founder and CEO, Bragi, said, “With our partnership with Noise, we intend to explore new possibilities for innovation and technological advancements in the Indian hearable sector. Both the brands have been bringing ground-breaking technologies and designs to ease the lives of several individuals. Noise is one of the leading players in India, with a compelling product portfolio and customer base. This partnership will bring several industry-first products carefully curated for the Indian market. We are geared up to work together as partners.”

The brand has introduced several TWS hearable products in 2021, considering the distinctive demands of the users. According to the latest report by Counterpoint Research, Noise is the third-largest player in the TWS market based on its shipment volumes. This partnership will help Noise grab a larger market share and offer an unparalleled experience to the Noisemakers.

In 2021, the first Bragi enabled products, fully powered by the Bragi Operating System have been launched and went straight to the top of the market, winning several nominations like Best Earbuds for Music by RollingStone and Best 100 Inventions ’21 by Time Magazine.

PanaCast 20 AI-enabled personal video conferencing device is now available

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Jabra today announces the availability of PanaCast 20 – the premium video conferencing device which utilizes cutting-edge technology to deliver the next generation of intelligent, secure and portable video collaboration. The plug-and-play PanaCast 20 camera offers a personal video conferencing experience, completely reinvented for today’s hybrid world.

As businesses over the world adjust to hybrid working styles, video is essential and traditional video tools are no longer fit for purpose. With the PanaCast 20, however, that clips to any monitor, businesses and employees can have total confidence that no matter what or where someone is presenting the quality will always be exceptional. Using advanced processors, powerful on-board AI and a premium 13-megapixel camera, the Jabra PanaCast 20 delivers a real-time 4K Ultra-HD image that’s sharp and crystal-clear, with virtually no latency.

AI powered video – in real time

Jabra’s AI-driven Intelligent Zoom automatically follows the user’s movements to intuitively adjust framing in real time. This ensures that the user is always in the centre of the frame while also allowing for more natural movement, making it feel like everyone is in the same room. The PanaCast 20 can adapt to almost any lighting. By using Intelligent Lighting Optimization, Jabra analyzes the environment and automatically adjusts the image to enhance video quality, including those situations where lighting is poor.

The PanaCast 20 also features Picture in Picture mode – a technology that uses powerful Edge AI processing to combine two real-time video streams into one. It displays the second stream in an integrated window with the main image. This mode works with any UC platform, even if dual-stream devices aren’t supported.

Collaborate in confidence

Remote working has meant that collaboration had to be reinvented, but it’s also produced new security challenges with many employees leaving businesses open to threats. With the PanaCast 20, security isn’t an issue. The intelligent personal camera is engineered for data security because the on-board AI processor drives all the features of the device. As a result, all actions take place on the device itself, significantly reducing the risk of a data breach. At the same time, the PanaCast 20 also features an integrated privacy cover that can be positioned over the camera lens, giving the user total control over when they want to be seen – or not.

Also Read | Jabra Elite 7 Pro, Elite 7 Active now available for purchase

The Jabra PanaCast 20 works with all leading UC platform forms and users of the personal camera will also be able to combine the device with other Jabra audio solutions such as the Jabra Evolve2 75 headphones and Speak 750. Regular software updates will also be available throughout the product lifespan ensuring maximum ROI.

Jabra PanaCast 20 SoMe Post 8 For hybrid workers

Peter Jayaseelan, Vice President and Managing Director, South Asia at Jabra, said, “The last 18-20 months saw a big shift in the way people work. Homes became their office and now as plans are afloat to return to office, hybrid work mode seems to be the most preferred and ideal work mode. Video conferencing, then becomes the de-facto communication mode to stay connected effectively with their teams. Customers are looking for efficient, easy to use and high-quality devices to stay productive. Happy to announce the launch of Jabra PanaCast 20 in the Indian market. The product is designed to set a new standard in the personal video collaboration space and enable people to effectively manage hybrid working anytime anywhere.”

Key features and specifications:

  • Premium AI-powered 4K Ultra-HD video quality
  • AI-driven Intelligent Zoom keeps you center stage
  • Intelligent Lighting Optimization for a picture-perfect image, wherever you work
  • Picture-in-Picture for even more impactful presentations
  • Powerful on-board AI processor improves data security
  • Integrated privacy cover guarantees privacy when you need it
  • Built for flexible working. Clips to any monitor. Comes with protective case
  • Truly plug-and-play. Works seamlessly with all leading UC platforms

Jabra PanaCast 20 is now available for purchase at MRP of $299.

Also Read: BenQ celebrates 20 years as a global innovator of display technologies

BenQ celebrates 20 years as a global innovator of display technologies

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BenQ celebrates the achievement of the 20 years milestone this month. In the last two decades, the brand has delivered the finest in visuality to the Indian consumer making it a preferred brand of choice.

BenQ hosts the most expansive product portfolio in the display technology domain making it a strong contender and a clear consumer favourite. It currently serves in the categories of LCD Monitor, Projector and Professional Display Products which include Interactive Flat panels, Smart Signage & Accessories. Formed in the year 2001 in Taiwan, BenQ has covered an upward journey and consistently conferred as the top player in the product categories.

BenQ’s key philosophy emphasizes on optimising the viewer experience with the world of visuality which is engaging and immersive. The company touches lives across categories, target segments and dimensions – be it education, home, gaming, prosumers like photographers, graphic designers, content creators.

Today, the legacy company is an industry leader in the DLP Projector category with 44% market share as well as home projectors segment with more than 50% market share. In the Education space, BenQ has been a pioneer in digitalizing over 3 lakh classrooms in the country which is over 50% of the total digital classrooms in the country. BenQ is the preferred choice of the education institutes as well as system integrators.

Also Read | BenQ retains no.1 position in DLP Projector market for Q3 2021: Futuresource Consulting Report

“2021 marks a significant milestone for us as we celebrate our 20th anniversary, and we appreciate all of our xx lac+ clients, 250+ Partners, and over 25 lakhs contented consumers for being a part of this growth journey. The pandemic has accelerated the overall adaptation of technology because of which we have witnessed a growth rate of 50% which has been the fastest in the last 20 years. We have a consumer first approach and are always at the forefront of launching the latest technology based on the changing needs of the consumers. With this, we aim to establish our vision for the next decade of building innovative technologies for the Indian market. BenQ will revolutionize the power of perceiving and consuming visual content for the Indian audience”, said, Rajeev Singh, Managing Director, BenQ India.

BENQ

Jeffrey Liang, President – BenQ APAC, said, “Achieving this milestone is a reflection of our corporate vision coming alive – “Bringing Enjoyment ‘N’ Quality to Life”. Our passionate team is inspired to contribute towards the creation of a knowledge society by enabling finest infrastructure in display technologies. Globally consumers are adopting to technologies at an accelerated pace and we will continue to be a leader in this domain. In the coming decade we will consistently serve the smarter generation with smarter products.”

BenQ believes that India is going through a display technology revolution. It is clairvoyant about the disruption in the consumer-psyche as screens become the window to the world. On achieving this successful milestone, brand BenQ acknowledges the support of its partners, the ecommerce thrust and other retail channels that have enabled the brand to be the top player consistently through the years. As constant innovation, BenQ has always paid impetus on their customers health and found innovative ways of integrating health care features in their products, be it eye care monitor with Brightness Intelligence feature or Air Quality sensor in the interactive displays.

Also Read: Meta’s new Gurugram office will be the company’s first stand-alone office in Asia

Meta’s new Gurugram office will be the company’s first stand-alone office in Asia

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Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology, and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, today inaugurated Meta’s new office in Gurugram. This is among the company’s first new office openings since the unveiling of its new identity Meta (formerly Facebook), one of its largest office spaces and the first standalone facility in Asia.

Set in a renovated 130,000 sq. ft building in the heart of the city, the office will also host the Centre for Fuelling India’s New Economy (C-FINE). The new Centre will be dedicated to training and skilling India’s small business owners, creators, entrepreneurs and local communities to enable them to both fuel and leverage the digital transformation underway in the country. The company also announced an ambitious goal of training 1 crore small businesses and entrepreneurs and 2,50,000 creators in the next three years.

Rajeev Chandrasekhar said, “Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi’s policies and vision is empowering entrepreneurship and opportunities and technology is catalyzing entrepreneurship and fueling growth of investments and economic growth. I hope initiatives like C-FINE, where technology is being positioned to fuel entrepreneurship & innovation and empower youngsters all around the country, take their dreams & create critical mass, size & scale. This is exactly what the power of the Internet and technology should be.”

Ajit Mohan, Vice-President & Managing Director, Facebook India (Meta) said, “We see this office as an opportunity for us to build a space that will house our largest team in the country. The office will be open to anyone who is driving change – be it creators, small business owners, entrepreneurs, artists or community leaders. The spaces here will see directed, purposeful efforts from Meta to fuel their pursuits, ideas and ambition. That is why we are embracing the ambitious goal of training 1 crore small businesses and 2,50,000 creators. We see this office as a reaffirmation of our commitment to the country, our deep aspiration to be an ally for a country that is rapidly transforming and where technology will play an enabling role in enhancing lives and prosperity of future generations.”

Also Read | Meta’s new Gurugram office blends global & local culture

The opening of C-FINE adds to a long list of Meta’s India-first approach to its unique products and initiatives that have become the template for the world. These include the launch of Reels on Instagram and Facebook, Live-Rooms on Instagram and Payments on WhatsApp. In addition to enabling India’s small businesses and digital creators, the Centre will also showcase the impact of new technologies on the digital ecosystem of the country and will have a dedicated area for demonstrating how technologies like AR and VR can play a transformative role in sectors such as learning and education, commerce and healthcare. The Centre will also help facilitate community impact programs around important issues such as safety trainings for women and children.

Meta has been part of India’s growth story since 2006, when the company began in Hyderabad with just one app and less than 15 million people using it to connect with friends and family. Having come a long way since, more than 400 million Indians today connect with each other and pursue their passion and business on its apps including Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. With C-FINE, Meta is poised to fuel the dreams and ambitions of a billion Indians who are pushing the boundaries of innovation that can empower local communities, unleash creative expression and create local jobs.

Also Read: 73% Indians created playlist for their loved ones during pandemic: New JBL Research

73% Indians created playlist for their loved ones during pandemic: New JBL Research

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Harman has conducted a study in collaboration with OnePoll that takes a closer look at the role of music in the moments that have contributed to pop culture and left a lasting impression on listeners globally.

The study was organized in the backdrop of celebrating the 75th anniversary of Harman’s world-renowned audio brand JBL. The remarkable trajectory of JBL has intersected with music throughout history. From once being the sound of Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium to becoming the rhythm of the Royal Opera House of Mumbai, JBL has been the sound of many musical evenings.

Music transports listeners to other times and places

With a legacy of powering many of the world’s most epic events, including Tomorrowland, Coachella, the JBL brand epitomizes music’s immersive power. Participants in the study agreed overwhelmingly that music has the ability to sweep them away to a specific moment. Also, music’s ability to take the listener to another time and place was evident, as millions of people around the world turned to music as a means of lifting their spirits and finding solace during the Covid-19 health crisis.

  • 54% respondents felt that music is a time machine, which has the ability to instantly transport them to a specific time.
  • 41% respondents said, they would love to attend an A.R. Rahman concert while 40% would like to listen to Arijit Singh singing at a concert, if they could travel back in time.
  • Interestingly, with 41% of votes, A.R. Rahman was chosen as the favorite artist of the year 2021 so far.
  • 53% respondents agreed that they’ve been listening to a lot more music than ever before in the past year.
  • 73% Indians created a playlist for their loved ones during the pandemic to make sure that their friends or loved ones also experience the comfort of music.

Music also has the marvelous ability to immerse the listener in an entirely different culture —an attribute that was particularly appreciated during months of home quarantine. Survey respondents largely agreed that music helps broaden their horizons. 47% Indians said that international music can act as a stepping stone toward appreciating other cultures.

Also Read | JBL launches Wave 100 TWS earbuds with up to 20 hrs battery life on Flipkart

Musical tastes evolve over time

  • 41% of respondents claimed Bollywood to be their favorite music genre during the ages of 0 – 10.
  • With time, 51% said that their musical taste had significantly changed over the years, partly due to such outside influences as their friends (46%), music TV (41%), and social media (40%).
  • But despite listeners’ evolving musical tastes, most expressed a marked degree of loyalty to their favorite artists, with 49% of Indians saying that their favorite artist had not changed over the past decade.
  • Transmission is important to most music lovers as well: 46% of Indians hope to pass down their taste for music to their children.

Live concerts still define the immersive experience

There is no experience to match the emotion and thrill of a live concert, and over its history, the JBL brand has become synonymous with live music amplification. JBL products have powered countless concerts and collaborated with major artists over the past several decades, including most recently Martin Garrix and Bebe Rexha. The memories related to concerts, especially one’s first concert, are especially strong: 30% of Indian respondents attended their first concert between the ages of 18 and 24, and 46% said they remembered every second of it.

Sound quality drives the musical experience

If listeners are to reap the full rewards of music, quality is essential. In India, 65% of respondents said that sound quality is an important factor in their enjoyment of music, reflecting one of the key trends to emerge during the pandemic, which is the growing demand for high-quality audio equipment. The need to work, study, and exercise from home, combined with the desire to enjoy live concerts and other musical content via streaming have all boosted demand. So too has the growing interest in online gaming, which greatly benefits from quality audio equipment such as JBL’s Quantum range of headsets made specifically for gaming. Aware of the role that high-quality audio equipment plays in sound quality, 45% of Indians cited speakers as being their most important electronic device.

“We are joyous to celebrate the milestone of JBL’s 75 years of legacy in delivering superior and convenient music experience to our consumers worldwide. It gives us immense pride and humility to see how the brand has touched numerous lives in these years while giving joy and comfort through our wide range of products be it in their homes, cars or on the go, which we keep redefining each day. The fire in our belly pushes us further to keep striving towards customer happiness and spread the passion of music anywhere and everywhere”, said Prathab Deivanayagham, Country Manager, Harman India.

Also Read: Meta’s new Gurugram office blends global & local culture

Meta’s new Gurugram office blends global & local culture

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Meta (formerly Facebook), today unveiled a new office in Gurugram. Spanning 130,000 square feet, across 6 floors, this is Meta’s first stand-alone office facility in Asia, and blends global and local culture.

Meta’s vision is to give people the power to build community and bring the world closer together. Its offices world over are designed to align with that mission. The new Meta headquarters is designed with an open floor plan and its unfinished look. This is meant to inspire collaboration and the consciously exposed concrete pillars and wires on the roof are meant to reflect its start-up roots.

Since unveiling its first office in Hyderabad in 2010, the company has evolved and rebranding to ‘Meta’ is the most recent example. The name represents the company’s vision for the future of the Internet, which is the ‘metaverse’ – a place where the physical and the digital worlds converge. It will be more immersive and engaging, creating a shared sense of space with another person and another place. The Metaverse is the next evolution of social connection and the new office has been designed in that backdrop.

Meta

Ajit Mohan, Vice-President & Managing Director, Facebook India (Meta) said, “We see this office as an opportunity for us to build a space that will house our largest team in the country. The office will be open to anyone who is driving change – be it creators, small business owners, entrepreneurs, artists or community leaders. The spaces here will see directed, purposeful efforts from Meta to fuel their pursuits, ideas and ambition. That is why we are embracing the ambitious goal of training 2 crore small businesses and 250,000 creators. We see this office as a reaffirmation of our commitment to the country, our deep aspiration to be an ally for a country that is rapidly transforming and where technology will play an enabling role in enhancing lives and prosperity of future generations.”

Workspace that augments creativity and incorporates pop-culture

Designed with modern, minimalist and functional furniture, the bright red, deep blue and mustard tapestry add a burst of colour to the office. An events center and a full production studio – equipped with a green room, are avenues for creation and collaboration. The wall culture within the office encourages everyone to scribble their ideas on whiteboards or share ‘What’s on your mind?’ on walls seen all over the office. Elements of quirky local and pop-culture are introduced with meeting room names such as ‘Chellam Sir Will Know’, ‘Felt Cute (Might Delete Later)’, and ‘When Is The Next Long Weekend?’

Meta OPEN FLOOR

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Art that represents India readying for the future

From the earliest days, art at Meta offices has ignited the minds of people and contributed to the company’s culture. For the Gurugram office, the aim was to have art that reflects India’s cultural and ideological diversity that’s shifting from traditional towards a new identity. Indian artists Pratap Morey, Rohini Devasher and Sameer Kulavoor worked with this brief and shared their interpretation of it. The enormity of their art pieces captures the imagination of viewers, as Rohini’s artwork spans over 65 feet, and Pratap’s artwork spans six floors of the building. Their work captures the future with a broad view of urbanisation and globalisation, in an attempt to invite new ways to think about ourselves and the world at large.

A ‘Center for Fuelling India’s New Economy’

As a tribute to India’s vibrancy, entrepreneurial spirit and creative zeal, the office has a dedicated space titled ‘Centre for Fuelling India’s New Economy’, which highlights the way ‘Digital India’ is shaping up, and the role Meta and its platforms are playing in that journey. The centre showcases the way technology can act as a bridge for skilling and economic development. This includes a dedicated area for demonstrating how new technologies like AR and VR will transform some of the key sectors such as learning and education, commerce and healthcare in the future.

Meta Studio

Keeping safety and sustainability at the forefront

Considering the pandemic, the office has also moulded several experiences in the interest of health and safety of employees. This includes several touchless experiences in the cafeteria and washroom facilities, as well as other best practices such as touchless sanitization stations and temperature checks. The building is also LEED Platinum Certified.

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